Underrated and affordable online shopping sites

There are two types of independence that most students gain when they begin college life. First, we have independence in terms of our schedules — the independence to go out whenever we want, wherever we want,  or to stay in and watch a movie when we should be studying. But the second type of independence is not quite as liberating. This type of independence is financial independence. As college students, many live on a budget and some students are responsible for managing their own finances and spending. But let’s be truthful here. We’ve all gone through that online shopping phase where we bleed our wallet dry, and then had that disappointing feeling when our account balance revealed we had only a mere $10 to our names.

To avoid a negative bank statement, I’ve compiled a list of underrated and affordable shopping websites for you so that you can still enjoy the wonders of online shopping and look like a million bucks while wearing an outfit that cost less than $50.

Missguided
Missguided is a forward-thinking online fashion brand that sells dresses, tops, bottoms, activewear, sleepwear, work wear, shoes, accessories — you name it! Missguided has everything you need and, most importantly, they believe that shopping is a right, not a luxury, which is clearly reflected in their affordable prices. The brand’s Coachella chic clothing boasts Forever 21-cheap prices. Items range from $15-50, and there are always promotions or sales going on with prices that go as low as under $10. They also have a 20 percent student discount and free standard shipping for orders over $80.

Necessary Clothing
With stores locations throughout the downtown New York City area, Necessary Clothing offers affordable apparel, shoes and accessories for trendy young women. However, when you’re on the opposite coast, or anywhere in between, the store’s website is great for online shopping. Necessary Clothing’s style is Brandy Melville-esque with casual tops, sweaters and bottoms, but they also have very trendy and modern pieces all for reasonable prices. Similar to Misgguided, prices also range from $15-50, and the store offers free U.S. shipping for orders over $125. In order to take advantage of free shipping on a budget, try looking over the site with your friends and ordering together.

Tobi
If you’re new to Tobi, and online retailer based in California, you can get 50 percent off your first order. I would describe Tobi’s style as very clean cut with modern silhouettes, cutouts and a classic color palette — think white, black, pastels, nudes. They offer free shipping for orders over $50 and free returns (thank the heavens!) so you can shop to your heart’s content without worrying if something won’t fit. Tobi also adds a ton of new items every single day so you’ll always have something new and fresh to see. Average prices range from $30-50.

Lucy in the Sky
Lucy in the Sky is an Australian-based store, and its style is characterized by the use of daring pops of color and prints and a classic style with bohemian flair. However, the store also features modern dresses with strappy back details and cutouts. It’s the perfect shopping destination when you want to update your closet with both edgy and hippie style. The average item costs around $30, making the brand super affordable. However, the site does not offer flat rate shipping, and as a result, the total shipping price can be quite high.